<p>Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in the women's 55kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games has been rejected, which means she will move back to her pet 49kg division to compete at the quadrennial meet in Birmingham.<br />
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The Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) had earlier planned to enter Chanu in the higher 55kg division to maximise India's medal chances at the CWG, to be held from July 28 to August 8.<br />
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The Manipuri ace, who had already qualified for the CWG 49kg event courtesy of being the top-ranked Indian weightlifter in the division, accepted the proposal. She then made the 55kg cut by winning gold at the Singapore Weightlifting International in February, which was the final CWG qualifying event.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-chairman-ramiz-raja-considering-resigning-from-his-position-in-wake-of-imran-khans-ouster-as-pakistan-pm-469994">Ramiz Raja considering resigning as PCB chief in the wake of Imran Khan's ouster as Pakistan PM</a><br />
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However, a change in entry rules by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) closed the Tokyo Olympics silver medallists'&nbsp;prospects of competing in the 55kg at CWG 2022.<br />
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According to the new rule, a country's top-ranked weightlifter in a category qualifies for the CWG but if they withdraw, the next best lifter doesn't get the berth automatically. As per the old rule, the spot would have gone to the next best or qualified lifter.<br />
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Mirabai Chanu's fellow Manipuri lifter Bindyarani Devi is the top-ranked Indian lifter in the 55kg division. Bindyarani was supposed to move up to the 59kg division if Mirabai could have participated in the 55kg as per the IWLF's initial plans, an olympics.com report said on Sunday. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/woman-shares-pic-of-14-year-old-sons-bruised-hand-smashed-phone-after-cristiano-ronaldos-outburst-469977">Woman shares pic of 14-year-old son's bruised hand, smashed phone after Cristiano Ronaldo's outburst</a><br />
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Jhilli Dalabehera was expected to take up Chanu's spot in the 49kg division while Poppy Hazarika was to be India's entry for the 64kg event.<br />
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After the latest development, former world champion Mirabai Chanu will move back to her 49kg for the Commonwealth Games while Bindyarani Dev and Poppy Hazarika will compete in the 55kg and 59kg, respectively. India will have no entry for the women's 64kg now.<br />
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The 27-year old Chanu is the reigning Commonwealth Games champion in the women's 49kg and all her major international honours, including the Olympic silver and world championships gold medal, have come in in the 48/49kg category. She also holds the world record for clean and jerk (119kg) in the division.</p>


Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in the women's 55kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games has been rejected, which means she will move back to her pet 49kg division to compete at the quadrennial meet in Birmingham.

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in the women's 55kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games has been rejected, which means she will move back to her pet 49kg division to compete at the quadrennial meet in Birmingham. The Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) had earlier planned to enter Chanu in the higher 55kg division to maximise India's medal chances at the CWG, to be held from July 28 to August 8. The Manipuri ace, who had already qualified for the CWG 49kg event courtesy of being the top-ranked Indian weightlifter in the division, accepted the proposal. She then made the 55kg cut by winning gold at the Singapore Weightlifting International in February, which was the final CWG qualifying event. ALSO READ: Ramiz Raja considering resigning as PCB chief in the wake of Imran Khan's ouster as Pakistan PM However, a change in entry rules by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) closed the Tokyo Olympics silver medallists' prospects of competing in the 55kg at CWG 2022. According to the new rule, a country's top-ranked weightlifter in a category qualifies for the CWG but if they withdraw, the next best lifter doesn't get the berth automatically. As per the old rule, the spot would have gone to the next best or qualified lifter. Mirabai Chanu's fellow Manipuri lifter Bindyarani Devi is the top-ranked Indian lifter in the 55kg division. Bindyarani was supposed to move up to the 59kg division if Mirabai could have participated in the 55kg as per the IWLF's initial plans, an olympics.com report said on Sunday. ALSO READ: Woman shares pic of 14-year-old son's bruised hand, smashed phone after Cristiano Ronaldo's outburst Jhilli Dalabehera was expected to take up Chanu's spot in the 49kg division while Poppy Hazarika was to be India's entry for the 64kg event. After the latest development, former world champion Mirabai Chanu will move back to her 49kg for the Commonwealth Games while Bindyarani Dev and Poppy Hazarika will compete in the 55kg and 59kg, respectively. India will have no entry for the women's 64kg now. The 27-year old Chanu is the reigning Commonwealth Games champion in the women's 49kg and all her major international honours, including the Olympic silver and world championships gold medal, have come in in the 48/49kg category. She also holds the world record for clean and jerk (119kg) in the division.

Commonwealth Games 2022: Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in women's 55kg category rejected

<p>Tokyo Olympic silver medallist weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has bagged her berth to the upcoming Commonwealth Games by securing a gold medal in the 55kg category in the CWG qualification event.</p>

<p>The 27-year-old lifter from Manipur bagged the top spot in Singapore by lifting a total of 191kg that secured her a spot in Birmingham.</p>

<p>The Indian weightlifter, who secured a silver medal in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in 2021 in the women's 49kg category, has moved up a weight division and is participating in 55kg now.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-beats-world-no-1-daniil-medvedev-to-enter-mexican-open-final-456760">Rafael Nadal beats World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev to enter Mexican Open final</a></p>

<p>"Happy to have qualified for the CWG 2022. My participation would not have been possible without the prompt response of @IndiaSports &amp; @meaMADAD in facilitating the Vaccinated Travel Lane Pass for me and my team, without which we couldn't have travelled to Singapore for the event," Mirabai tweeted on Friday.</p>

<p>Having secured the quota, Mirabai is looking forward to winning gold in CWG as it gives her good preparation for the Asian Games which are expected to be tougher.</p>

<p>The weightlifter was overjoyed with the qualification and said, "Seven months of intense training and my never-ending love for the sport continues to pay off. I would like to extend my thanks to our Ministry of Youth and Affairs, Weightlifting Federation of India, SAI and all the other stakeholders who have helped me reach here. I am determined to work harder and do everything I can to grab the gold medal again for my country in the CWG."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poland-will-not-play-world-cup-qualifying-match-against-russia-says-polish-fa-head-cezary-kulesza-456742">Poland will not play World Cup qualifying match against Russia, says Polish FA head Cezary Kulesza</a></p>

<p>The qualification event allows the top eight lifters in each category to qualify for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham out of which Chanu has assured a spot not only in the 49kg category but also in the 55kg category for India.</p>


Tokyo Olympic silver medallist weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has bagged her berth to the upcoming Commonwealth Games by securing a gold medal in the 55kg category in the CWG qualification event.

Tokyo Olympic silver medallist weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has bagged her berth to the upcoming Commonwealth Games by securing a gold medal in the 55kg category in the CWG qualification event. The 27-year-old lifter from Manipur bagged the top spot in Singapore by lifting a total of 191kg that secured her a spot in Birmingham. The Indian weightlifter, who secured a silver medal in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in 2021 in the women's 49kg category, has moved up a weight division and is participating in 55kg now. ALSO READ: Rafael Nadal beats World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev to enter Mexican Open final "Happy to have qualified for the CWG 2022. My participation would not have been possible without the prompt response of @IndiaSports & @meaMADAD in facilitating the Vaccinated Travel Lane Pass for me and my team, without which we couldn't have travelled to Singapore for the event," Mirabai tweeted on Friday. Having secured the quota, Mirabai is looking forward to winning gold in CWG as it gives her good preparation for the Asian Games which are expected to be tougher. The weightlifter was overjoyed with the qualification and said, "Seven months of intense training and my never-ending love for the sport continues to pay off. I would like to extend my thanks to our Ministry of Youth and Affairs, Weightlifting Federation of India, SAI and all the other stakeholders who have helped me reach here. I am determined to work harder and do everything I can to grab the gold medal again for my country in the CWG." ALSO READ: Poland will not play World Cup qualifying match against Russia, says Polish FA head Cezary Kulesza The qualification event allows the top eight lifters in each category to qualify for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham out of which Chanu has assured a spot not only in the 49kg category but also in the 55kg category for India.

Tokyo Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu qualifies for Commonwealth Games 2022 with a golden lift

<p>2021 was an eventful year for Indian sports with the country recording its best-ever medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. It was a stellar campaign for India at the Olympics with a total of seven medals across six sporting disciplines with Neeraj Chopra becoming only the second Indian to win a historic individual gold medal at the Games.</p>

<p>Chopra won an elusive gold medal in men's javelin throw on the penultimate day of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to bring joy to millions of Indians across the globe. It was a moment of pride for the countrymen as the national anthem was played in Tokyo with Chopra on top of the podium after a memorable triumph. He brought an end to a long and agonising wait of 100 years for a track and field medal in the Olympics.</p>

<p>While Chopra was India's only gold medallist at the Tokyo Olympics this year, a number of other athletes brought glory to the nation with their heroics at the Games. It was a memorable campaign for India as the men's hockey team also won a medal after 41 years to reestablish their dominance in world hockey. Here is a look back at the heroes who clinched glory for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.</p>

<p><strong>1) Mirabai Chanu</strong></p>

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<p>Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 with an amazing display on the opening day of the showpiece event. Chanu clinched a historic silver medal in the women's 49kg weightlifting category with a brilliant effort. She lifted a total of &nbsp;202kg (87kg+115kg) to finish second on the podium and create history by ending India's 21-yearlong wait for a medal in weightlifting. She also became the first Indian weightlifter to win a silver medal in Olympics.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-mirabai-chanu-to-avani-lekhara-5-women-olympians-who-have-made-a-lasting-impact-with-glittering-performances-410823">From Mirabai Chanu to Avani Lekhara: 5 women Olympians who have made a lasting impact with glittering performances</a></p>

<p><strong>2) PV Sindhu&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu proved her class once again at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 where she achieved a stellar feat of becoming the first Indian woman and only the second athlete after Sushil Kumar to win back-to-back Olympic medals. Sindhu beat China's He Bing Jiao 21-13, 21-15 in the bronze medal match in the women's singles event to clinch her second straight medal after her silver at the Rio Olympics 2016.</p>

<p><strong>3) Lovlina Borgohain&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>It was one of the most heartwarming stories of success for an Indian athlete at the Olympics as Lovlina Borgohain, a 23-year-old boxer from a small village in Assam, India scripted history at the biggest stages of them all. Lovlina beat Chinese Taipei's Nien-Chin in the bronze medal match of the women's welterweight (69 kg) category at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. She had lost 5-0 against reigning world champion Busenaz Surmeneli in the semi-final but bounced back to return home with a bronze. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>4)&nbsp;Ravi Kumar Dahiya&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Young wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya clinched a historic silver medal for India in his debut campaign at the Tokyo Olympics. He became only the seventh Indian to win an individual silver medal at the Olympics after going down against two-time world champion Zavur Uguev in the final of the 57kg freestyle wrestling category. He was India's second silver medallist at the Tokyo Olympics after weightlifter Mirabai Chanu.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Neeraj to Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics</a></p>

<p><strong>5) Indian men's hockey team&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The Indian men's hockey team made the entire nation erupt in joy when they went on to beat Germany 5-4 in a thriller to clinch their first Olympic medal since Moscow Games in 1980. The Indian hockey team once dominated world hockey and has a staggering 12 medals at the Olympics. However, the team had not won a medal for over 40 years before ending the drought in Tokyo this year.</p>

<p><strong>6) Bajrang Punia&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The expectations were high from Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia heading into the Olympics this year as he had performed well in various major tournaments across the globe. Competing in the men's 65kg freestyle wrestling category, Punia went down against Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in the semi-finals but beat Kazakhstan’s Daulet Niyazbekov in the bronze medal match to return home with a medal. It was the second medal for India in wrestling at the Tokyo Games and helped them qual their best-ever meal haul of six in a single edition of the Olympics.</p>

<p><strong>7) Neeraj Chopra</strong></p>

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<p>Neeraj Chopra scripted history at the Tokyo Olympics this year by bringing an end to India's long and agonising wait of over a hundred years for a medal in athletics/track and field. With a monstrous throw of 87.5m in the final of the men's javelin throw event, Chopra became only the second Indian after Abhinav Bindra to win individual gold at the Olympics. His gold medal triumph saw India record its best-ever Olympics medal tally at the Tokyo Games.</p>


2021 was an eventful year for Indian sports with the country recording its best-ever medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. It was a stellar campaign for India at the Olympics with a total of seven medals across six sporting disciplines with Neeraj Chopra becoming only the second Indian to win a historic individual gold medal at the Games.

2021 was an eventful year for Indian sports with the country recording its best-ever medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. It was a stellar campaign for India at the Olympics with a total of seven medals across six sporting disciplines with Neeraj Chopra becoming only the second Indian to win a historic individual gold medal at the Games. Chopra won an elusive gold medal in men's javelin throw on the penultimate day of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to bring joy to millions of Indians across the globe. It was a moment of pride for the countrymen as the national anthem was played in Tokyo with Chopra on top of the podium after a memorable triumph. He brought an end to a long and agonising wait of 100 years for a track and field medal in the Olympics. While Chopra was India's only gold medallist at the Tokyo Olympics this year, a number of other athletes brought glory to the nation with their heroics at the Games. It was a memorable campaign for India as the men's hockey team also won a medal after 41 years to reestablish their dominance in world hockey. Here is a look back at the heroes who clinched glory for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. 1) Mirabai Chanu × Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 with an amazing display on the opening day of the showpiece event. Chanu clinched a historic silver medal in the women's 49kg weightlifting category with a brilliant effort. She lifted a total of 202kg (87kg+115kg) to finish second on the podium and create history by ending India's 21-yearlong wait for a medal in weightlifting. She also became the first Indian weightlifter to win a silver medal in Olympics. Also Read: From Mirabai Chanu to Avani Lekhara: 5 women Olympians who have made a lasting impact with glittering performances 2) PV Sindhu × Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu proved her class once again at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 where she achieved a stellar feat of becoming the first Indian woman and only the second athlete after Sushil Kumar to win back-to-back Olympic medals. Sindhu beat China's He Bing Jiao 21-13, 21-15 in the bronze medal match in the women's singles event to clinch her second straight medal after her silver at the Rio Olympics 2016. 3) Lovlina Borgohain × It was one of the most heartwarming stories of success for an Indian athlete at the Olympics as Lovlina Borgohain, a 23-year-old boxer from a small village in Assam, India scripted history at the biggest stages of them all. Lovlina beat Chinese Taipei's Nien-Chin in the bronze medal match of the women's welterweight (69 kg) category at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. She had lost 5-0 against reigning world champion Busenaz Surmeneli in the semi-final but bounced back to return home with a bronze. 4) Ravi Kumar Dahiya × Young wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya clinched a historic silver medal for India in his debut campaign at the Tokyo Olympics. He became only the seventh Indian to win an individual silver medal at the Olympics after going down against two-time world champion Zavur Uguev in the final of the 57kg freestyle wrestling category. He was India's second silver medallist at the Tokyo Olympics after weightlifter Mirabai Chanu. Also Read: From Neeraj to Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics 5) Indian men's hockey team × The Indian men's hockey team made the entire nation erupt in joy when they went on to beat Germany 5-4 in a thriller to clinch their first Olympic medal since Moscow Games in 1980. The Indian hockey team once dominated world hockey and has a staggering 12 medals at the Olympics. However, the team had not won a medal for over 40 years before ending the drought in Tokyo this year. 6) Bajrang Punia × The expectations were high from Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia heading into the Olympics this year as he had performed well in various major tournaments across the globe. Competing in the men's 65kg freestyle wrestling category, Punia went down against Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in the semi-finals but beat Kazakhstan’s Daulet Niyazbekov in the bronze medal match to return home with a medal. It was the second medal for India in wrestling at the Tokyo Games and helped them qual their best-ever meal haul of six in a single edition of the Olympics. 7) Neeraj Chopra × Neeraj Chopra scripted history at the Tokyo Olympics this year by bringing an end to India's long and agonising wait of over a hundred years for a medal in athletics/track and field. With a monstrous throw of 87.5m in the final of the men's javelin throw event, Chopra became only the second Indian after Abhinav Bindra to win individual gold at the Olympics. His gold medal triumph saw India record its best-ever Olympics medal tally at the Tokyo Games.

Super Seven! The heroes of India's best-ever Olympic campaign in Tokyo

<p>India's Jhilli Dalabehera won a silver medal in the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, which is being held alongside the World Championships.<br />
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Jhilli, the 22-year weightlifter from Odisha's tribal Mayurbhanj district, finished second in the women's 49 kg, the same weight class in which Mirabai Chanu won silver in Tokyo Olympics Games. Mirabai is not participating in this event as she is on a break.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-star-neeraj-chopra-emerges-as-most-searched-personality-on-google-by-countrymen-in-2021-435426"><strong>Tokyo 2020 star Neeraj Chopra emerges as most-searched personality on Google by countrymen in 2021</strong></a><br />
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Jhilli, who is an Asian champion and a bronze medallist in the World junior in 45kg but has moved up to 49kg as 45kg is not a recognised Olympic discipline, came up with the best effort of 73kg in snatch and 94 kg in clean and jerk for a total of 167kg -- her personal best in this class.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Weightlifting?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Weightlifting</a> Medal Update<br />
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🇮🇳's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JhilliDalabehera?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JhilliDalabehera</a> 🏋️‍♀️ lifts a total of 167kg with 73kg in Snatch &amp; 94kg in Clean &amp; Jerk to win 3️⃣ medals in Women's 49kg (GOLD🥇in Snatch &amp; SILVER🥈in Total and Clean &amp; Jerk category) at ongoing Commonwealth Senior C'ships 2021<br />
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Congrats 👏 <a href="https://t.co/XaN8ssKomV">pic.twitter.com/XaN8ssKomV</a></p>
— SAI Media (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1468841027200905226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>She finished second in the Commonwealth nations, behind Nigeria's Peter Stella Kingsley, who lifted 168kg (72 + 96).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italys-olympic-bronze-medal-winning-boxer-irma-testa-comes-out-as-gay-433948">Italy's Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Irma Testa comes out as gay</a></strong><br />
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Though the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship is a qualifying event for next year's Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Jhilli could clinch her berth on Thursday as only the gold medallists at Tashkent make the grade.</p>


India's Jhilli Dalabehera won a silver medal in the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, which is being held alongside the World Championships.

India's Jhilli Dalabehera won a silver medal in the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, which is being held alongside the World Championships. Jhilli, the 22-year weightlifter from Odisha's tribal Mayurbhanj district, finished second in the women's 49 kg, the same weight class in which Mirabai Chanu won silver in Tokyo Olympics Games. Mirabai is not participating in this event as she is on a break. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 star Neeraj Chopra emerges as most-searched personality on Google by countrymen in 2021 Jhilli, who is an Asian champion and a bronze medallist in the World junior in 45kg but has moved up to 49kg as 45kg is not a recognised Olympic discipline, came up with the best effort of 73kg in snatch and 94 kg in clean and jerk for a total of 167kg -- her personal best in this class. #Weightlifting Medal Update 🇮🇳's #JhilliDalabehera 🏋️‍♀️ lifts a total of 167kg with 73kg in Snatch & 94kg in Clean & Jerk to win 3️⃣ medals in Women's 49kg (GOLD🥇in Snatch & SILVER🥈in Total and Clean & Jerk category) at ongoing Commonwealth Senior C'ships 2021 Congrats 👏 pic.twitter.com/XaN8ssKomV — SAI Media (@Media_SAI) December 9, 2021 × She finished second in the Commonwealth nations, behind Nigeria's Peter Stella Kingsley, who lifted 168kg (72 + 96). ALSO READ: Italy's Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Irma Testa comes out as gay Though the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship is a qualifying event for next year's Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Jhilli could clinch her berth on Thursday as only the gold medallists at Tashkent make the grade.

Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship: India's Jhillia Dalabehera bags silver in 49kg category

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<p>Tokyo Olympics 2020 medallists PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu have featured on the cover of the latest edition of a popular fashion magazine. Indian athletes displayed outstanding performances at the Olympic Games this year, especially the female participants and winners. Celebrating the same, Vogue India&nbsp;dedicated its 14th-anniversary issue to the women athletes at Tokyo Games, who inspired millions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-time Olympics medalist and India's badminton star Sindhu won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Games. Weightlifter from Manipur ended a 21-year wait for a medal in the sport, clinching a silver medal in the 49kg category and boxing legend Lovlina won bronze 69kg category. India recorded its best-ever haul at the Olympics with seven medals — one gold, two silver and four bronze.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-gender-equality-to-the-participation-of-trans-athletes-a-list-of-epic-firsts-at-tokyo-olympics-404254">From gender-equality to the participation of trans-athletes: A list of epic firsts at Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here are the pictures:</strong></p>

<p><strong>PV Sindhu - "RISING TO THE TOP"</strong></p>

<p>"India's most marketable female athlete and one of the world's highest earning sportswomen, PV Sindhu's bronze in the women's singles established her place as one of India's stars at the Tokyo Olympics. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars," VOGUE India tweeted for Sindhu.</p>

<p>Sindhu feels that the younger generation of the country is lagging behind when it comes to participation in sports.</p>

<p>"I'll start a training academy at Visakhapatnam very soon for youth, with state govt's support. Many youths lagging behind in sports as they don't have proper encouragement," Sindhu has said recently.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India’s most marketable female athlete and one of the world’s highest earning sportswomen, PV Sindhu’s bronze in the women’s singles established her place as one of India’s stars at the Tokyo Olympics. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars.<a href="https://t.co/TWzTPgr39a">https://t.co/TWzTPgr39a</a> <a href="https://t.co/jXpZ7cowFL">pic.twitter.com/jXpZ7cowFL</a></p>
— VOGUE India (@VOGUEIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/VOGUEIndia/status/1444187921897172993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Mirabai Chanu - "INSPIRING A GENERATION"</strong></p>

<p>"In a year that saw many sportspeople spark conversations around mental health, the silver lining for @Mirabai_Chanu was letting go of the mental burden faced by most athletes, and believing in herself. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars," VOGUE India tweeted for Mirabai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The magazine has revealed that how Manipur sportswoman Kunjarani Devi's triumphs in the arena inspired Chanu, as otherwise, the Olympic silver medalist wanted to be an archer.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bhavani-devis-efforts-to-neeraj-chopras-gold-historic-firsts-and-some-shining-moments-of-india-at-tokyo-olympics-404251">From Bhavani Devi's efforts to Neeraj Chopra's gold: Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In a year that saw many sportspeople spark conversations around mental health, the silver lining for <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mirabai_Chanu</a> was letting go of the mental burden faced by most athletes, and believing in herself. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars.<a href="https://t.co/JjnRaYdRiw">https://t.co/JjnRaYdRiw</a> <a href="https://t.co/my2cXdRcA7">pic.twitter.com/my2cXdRcA7</a></p>
— VOGUE India (@VOGUEIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/VOGUEIndia/status/1444187926821232641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Lovlina Borgohain - "BEATING THE ODDS"</strong></p>

<p>"Determined to defy the odds, @LovlinaBorgohai`s bronze success at the Tokyo Olympics is not just a story of resilience but one of grit that every girl can aspire to. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars," VOGUE India tweeted for Lovlina.</p>

<p>The magazine cover highlights her resilient Tokyo Olympics journey as she was tested positive for COVID-19 a day before she was supposed to leave with the Olympic-qualified boxers for a training camp in Europe.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Determined to defy the odds, <a href="https://twitter.com/LovlinaBorgohai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LovlinaBorgohai</a>’s bronze success at the Tokyo Olympics is not just a story of resilience but one of grit that every girl can aspire to. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars.<a href="https://t.co/TWzTPgr39a">https://t.co/TWzTPgr39a</a> <a href="https://t.co/6y9L2cZpc4">pic.twitter.com/6y9L2cZpc4</a></p>
— VOGUE India (@VOGUEIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/VOGUEIndia/status/1444187918868877314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tokyo Olympics 2020 medallists PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu have featured on the cover of the latest edition of a popular fashion magazine.

Tokyo Olympics 2020 medallists PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu have featured on the cover of the latest edition of a popular fashion magazine. Indian athletes displayed outstanding performances at the Olympic Games this year, especially the female participants and winners. Celebrating the same, Vogue India dedicated its 14th-anniversary issue to the women athletes at Tokyo Games, who inspired millions. The two-time Olympics medalist and India's badminton star Sindhu won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Games. Weightlifter from Manipur ended a 21-year wait for a medal in the sport, clinching a silver medal in the 49kg category and boxing legend Lovlina won bronze 69kg category. India recorded its best-ever haul at the Olympics with seven medals — one gold, two silver and four bronze. IN PICS | From gender-equality to the participation of trans-athletes: A list of epic firsts at Tokyo Olympics Here are the pictures: PV Sindhu - "RISING TO THE TOP" "India's most marketable female athlete and one of the world's highest earning sportswomen, PV Sindhu's bronze in the women's singles established her place as one of India's stars at the Tokyo Olympics. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars," VOGUE India tweeted for Sindhu. Sindhu feels that the younger generation of the country is lagging behind when it comes to participation in sports. "I'll start a training academy at Visakhapatnam very soon for youth, with state govt's support. Many youths lagging behind in sports as they don't have proper encouragement," Sindhu has said recently. India’s most marketable female athlete and one of the world’s highest earning sportswomen, PV Sindhu’s bronze in the women’s singles established her place as one of India’s stars at the Tokyo Olympics. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars.https://t.co/TWzTPgr39a pic.twitter.com/jXpZ7cowFL — VOGUE India (@VOGUEIndia) October 2, 2021 × Mirabai Chanu - "INSPIRING A GENERATION" "In a year that saw many sportspeople spark conversations around mental health, the silver lining for @Mirabai_Chanu was letting go of the mental burden faced by most athletes, and believing in herself. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars," VOGUE India tweeted for Mirabai. The magazine has revealed that how Manipur sportswoman Kunjarani Devi's triumphs in the arena inspired Chanu, as otherwise, the Olympic silver medalist wanted to be an archer. IN PICS | From Bhavani Devi's efforts to Neeraj Chopra's gold: Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics In a year that saw many sportspeople spark conversations around mental health, the silver lining for @Mirabai_Chanu was letting go of the mental burden faced by most athletes, and believing in herself. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars.https://t.co/JjnRaYdRiw pic.twitter.com/my2cXdRcA7 — VOGUE India (@VOGUEIndia) October 2, 2021 × Lovlina Borgohain - "BEATING THE ODDS" "Determined to defy the odds, @LovlinaBorgohai`s bronze success at the Tokyo Olympics is not just a story of resilience but one of grit that every girl can aspire to. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars," VOGUE India tweeted for Lovlina. The magazine cover highlights her resilient Tokyo Olympics journey as she was tested positive for COVID-19 a day before she was supposed to leave with the Olympic-qualified boxers for a training camp in Europe. Determined to defy the odds, @LovlinaBorgohai’s bronze success at the Tokyo Olympics is not just a story of resilience but one of grit that every girl can aspire to. Read to see more about our October 2021 cover stars.https://t.co/TWzTPgr39a pic.twitter.com/6y9L2cZpc4 — VOGUE India (@VOGUEIndia) October 2, 2021 ×

Tokyo Olympics stars Lovlina Borgohain, Mirabai Chanu, PV Sindhu feature on a fashion magazine cover - See pics

<p>In India, it isn't easy to keep cricket at a backseat. Workplace deadlines are given a miss. Leaves are consumed if Team India have a marquee series or World Cup in the pipeline. Thus, the India-England Tests commenced on August 2 and has lived upto expectations so far, with some pulsating affair between two top sides in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;Nonetheless, the inspiring journey of Indian athletes in Tokyo 2020 and Tokyo Paralympics have pushed the gentlemen's game, India's most adored game, to the back foot in the last few months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Tokyo 2020, which lasted from July 23-August 8, was a huge success for Team India and reignited the faith of the Indian sports audience towards hockey, wrestling and many other sports, the humongous success of para-athletes have been a new chapter of learning for the sports lovers nationwide.</p>

<p>With a total of 26 medals coming in for India, including both the Olympics, we look at some of the huge moments of pride provided by the women athletes in varied sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>1) Mirabai Chanu:</strong> After the shambles of Rio 2016, the 27-year-old weightlifter rose to the occasion on Day One of Tokyo 2020 with a silver medal in the 49kg category. Her success has paved way for many young athletes taking a liking towards the sport. A viral video of a young girl lifting weights, seeing Mirabai's podium finish, speaks volumes of her incredible success and overall impact.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-dark-clouds-of-struggle-have-a-silver-lining-for-mirabai-chanus-coach-vijay-sharma-410212"><strong>EXCLUSIVE | Dark clouds of struggle have a 'silver' lining for Mirabai Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>2) Lovlina Borogohain: </strong>The youngster became the talk of the nation with a bronze medal finish, in the 69kg category, in Tokyo 2020. The boxer's resume is already a glittering one; being a World Championship medallist, Arjuna awardee and Asian Games medallist. Safe to say, Tokyo heroics is just a sneak peek of things to come from the boxer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>3) Avani Lekhara:</strong> The story of the 19-year-old so far has been awe-inspiring. In her maiden Olympics, i.e. Tokyo Paralympics, she became the first-ever Indian woman Paralympian&nbsp;to win two medals. She won gold in 10m air-rifle SH1 standing final event and bronze in 50m rifle 3P SH1 shooting final. She is also India's first woman para-athlete to win gold.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>4) Bhavina Patel:</strong> She became India's first-ever para-athlete to win a medal (silver) in table tennis at the Olympics. While she missed out on gold by a convincing margin, she made the whole nation beam with pride with her overall&nbsp;performance.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/avani-lekhara-to-be-indias-flag-bearer-during-tokyo-paralympics-2020-closing-ceremony-410819"><strong>Avani Lekhara to be India's flag bearer during Tokyo Paralympics 2020 closing ceremony</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>5) PV Sindhu, women's hockey team: </strong>The list cannot be complete with the omission of either of the two. While Sindhu displayed her experience and consistency with a bronze medal finish in Tokyo 2020, after silver in Rio 2016, the Rani Rampal-led women's team have revamped hockey despite returning with no medal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From battling early group stage elimination to beating pre-tournament favourites Australia (in the quarters) and losing to Great Britain 4-3 in the bronze-medal face-off, the women's team's impact was certainly more than the men's, who ended with bronze. Given how Rio 2016 was a forgettable affair&nbsp;for Rampal &amp; Co., where they finished last, the fourth-spot finish is surely a strong base created for plenty of glory to follow in the near future.</p>


In India, it isn't easy to keep cricket at a backseat. Workplace deadlines are given a miss. Leaves are consumed if Team India have a marquee series or World Cup in the pipeline.

In India, it isn't easy to keep cricket at a backseat. Workplace deadlines are given a miss. Leaves are consumed if Team India have a marquee series or World Cup in the pipeline. Thus, the India-England Tests commenced on August 2 and has lived upto expectations so far, with some pulsating affair between two top sides in the United Kingdom. Nonetheless, the inspiring journey of Indian athletes in Tokyo 2020 and Tokyo Paralympics have pushed the gentlemen's game, India's most adored game, to the back foot in the last few months. While Tokyo 2020, which lasted from July 23-August 8, was a huge success for Team India and reignited the faith of the Indian sports audience towards hockey, wrestling and many other sports, the humongous success of para-athletes have been a new chapter of learning for the sports lovers nationwide. With a total of 26 medals coming in for India, including both the Olympics, we look at some of the huge moments of pride provided by the women athletes in varied sports. 1) Mirabai Chanu: After the shambles of Rio 2016, the 27-year-old weightlifter rose to the occasion on Day One of Tokyo 2020 with a silver medal in the 49kg category. Her success has paved way for many young athletes taking a liking towards the sport. A viral video of a young girl lifting weights, seeing Mirabai's podium finish, speaks volumes of her incredible success and overall impact. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Dark clouds of struggle have a 'silver' lining for Mirabai Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma 2) Lovlina Borogohain: The youngster became the talk of the nation with a bronze medal finish, in the 69kg category, in Tokyo 2020. The boxer's resume is already a glittering one; being a World Championship medallist, Arjuna awardee and Asian Games medallist. Safe to say, Tokyo heroics is just a sneak peek of things to come from the boxer. 3) Avani Lekhara: The story of the 19-year-old so far has been awe-inspiring. In her maiden Olympics, i.e. Tokyo Paralympics, she became the first-ever Indian woman Paralympian to win two medals. She won gold in 10m air-rifle SH1 standing final event and bronze in 50m rifle 3P SH1 shooting final. She is also India's first woman para-athlete to win gold. 4) Bhavina Patel: She became India's first-ever para-athlete to win a medal (silver) in table tennis at the Olympics. While she missed out on gold by a convincing margin, she made the whole nation beam with pride with her overall performance. ALSO READ | Avani Lekhara to be India's flag bearer during Tokyo Paralympics 2020 closing ceremony 5) PV Sindhu, women's hockey team: The list cannot be complete with the omission of either of the two. While Sindhu displayed her experience and consistency with a bronze medal finish in Tokyo 2020, after silver in Rio 2016, the Rani Rampal-led women's team have revamped hockey despite returning with no medal. From battling early group stage elimination to beating pre-tournament favourites Australia (in the quarters) and losing to Great Britain 4-3 in the bronze-medal face-off, the women's team's impact was certainly more than the men's, who ended with bronze. Given how Rio 2016 was a forgettable affair for Rampal & Co., where they finished last, the fourth-spot finish is surely a strong base created for plenty of glory to follow in the near future.

From Mirabai Chanu to Avani Lekhara: 5 women Olympians who have made a lasting impact with glittering performances

<p><em>Firsts </em>are always special. Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won India its first-ever medal at the Tokyo 2020, by securing a silver in the 49kg category. It was the start of something special for Team India, who went on to end with as many as seven medals to return their best-ever showing&nbsp;at an Olympics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, she fulfilled her family’s and her dreams. She also made her entire team, which was beside her at all times and had worked tirelessly to ensure her a podium-finish, extremely proud. Vijay Sharma, Mirabai's and India's national weightlifting coach, was also beaming&nbsp;with pride seeing his protégé stand on the podium as she also fulfilled his long-standing and unfulfilled desire.</p>

<p>For the unversed, Vijay joined as the national coach in 2012. However, the first chapter of his journey as an athlete&nbsp; was penned down&nbsp;long back. The man from Modinagar, near Meerut, didn't have a glittering resume but won as many as seven medals -- including a gold -- at the national championship. However, an Olympic medal eluded his cabinet before Mirabai scripted history. Thus, while Vijay cannot brag of an Olympic medal as an athlete, he is now living his dream in through her success.</p>

<p><em>WION News' Aditya Sahay&nbsp;</em>got chance to interact with Vijay Sharma as the veteran coach shared his journey with Mirabai, the hardships and sacrifices seen together and future of weightlifting in India. <strong><em>Here are the excerpts:</em></strong></p>

<p><strong>Q) Being a former&nbsp;athlete, how did you feel when Mirabai Chanu secured silver at Tokyo 2020? What was the initial feeling?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Being an athlete and now a coach, it was such a moment that cannot be described. If you are not able to do something in life, you hope and expect that is achieved by your child. These athletes are my children only. So I cannot really put this in words as to what and how I actually felt. After Rio 2016 and the Tokyo Olympics being pushed by a year due to Covid-19, the wait was a long one but eventually turned out to be worthwhile.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Q) Surely, the process must've been tough. Over the years, you're believed to have made sure the relationship between athletes-coach remained solid and the diet and overall fitness weren't compromised at any cost. What was your initial plans when you stepped up as the national weightlifting coach in 2012?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>During my stint as an athlete, staying in national camp from 1993-2000, I gave plenty of trails and failed many a times. Back then, I realised what all are essential for any player in his, or her, journey. That phase taught me many things. Thus, I started with a lot of changes as a state coach in 2001. I tried and tested a lot of things in my initial days. We won the state junior championship on three successive occasions, which propelled the federation to invite us and work with the national team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since joining the national team, I realised the same issues are still existing in the federation in terms of training regime, diet plans, fitness etc. Slowly and steadily, I&nbsp;started seeing the changes and understood the progress is now happening. My personal experience taught me a lot. Earlier the culture and concept was that running fitness isn't that important in weightlifting. It took time but I tried to inculcate such changes and look after the overall fitness in every aspect.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Back in action! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/missionparis2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#missionparis2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/0D5ZVMMN0k">pic.twitter.com/0D5ZVMMN0k</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1430513016055898114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>I worked on athletes' diet plans, fitness and to build a trust and communication with the players. You need to sit and spend time with them, on and off the field. Only then will they respond and work with you in a desired manner.&nbsp;See, national champions won't listen to you at once. He, or she, will feel they are already very good so one needs to win their trust so that the communication and respect is intact. After all this was formed, we started marching ahead in big events and the confidence and momentum just kept on building continuously.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Q) What were the hardships Mirabai-Vijay Sharma and team went through over the years, enroute Tokyo silver?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>I've worked a lot with these players. All of them, not only Mirabai, have sacrificed a lot. Mira was contemplating quitting the game, especially after what transpired in Rio 2016. The following 2-3 months was very tough to motivate and force her way back. After her record win in 2018 Commonwealth Games (CWG), her back injury forced us to stay in Mumbai for long for medical treatment so that was another big jolt coming our way.&nbsp;To top it all, Mira didn't even attend her own sister's wedding. From Rio 2016 onwards, she must've visited her hometown for only 12-14 days maximum. Even I haven't met my close friends for years. You don't get to visit families on occasions and festivities, which doesn't come out in the open but is tough for every athlete.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you my coach Vijay Sharma sir and team for all the hardwork. <a href="https://t.co/CwBfqOJBws">pic.twitter.com/CwBfqOJBws</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1418924188614733828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Q) Is it true that you missed out on several family gatherings and festivities over the years. How tough was it and how did your family support you?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>I continued to play at the national level even after marriage. So every new member of the family knew that my life isn't the same. However, my family has always supported me wholeheartedly. No one can move an inch ahead or succeed in their field sans family support.&nbsp;I've my home in Ghaziabad. It isn't very far from the camp (in Patiala). But I never travelled back home. I wasn't home even for Karwa Chauth or any other festival to follow the same rules which were applicable to the athletes. It didn't feel right to visit my family when my children (i.e. the athletes) remain in the camp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One needs to set the example and abide by it for others to follow suit. These are my children. Any birthday or festival, we get together and celebrate as much as we can....so that we can treat each other as a family away from home.</p>

<p><strong>Q) Is it easy when the coach has also won medals, like you have, and represented the nation? Does the method become&nbsp;slightly easier?</strong></p>

<p>Depends on the inner soul. There were many good or great players with me during my national camp days. I wasn't the best, but that doesn't mean a good athlete will be a good coach. It all depends on how your mind is reacting and how confident you are from within.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Q) In India, we shower athletes with praises when they succeed and criticise them sharply when they're down. Do you feel the attention given, though much-deserved, becomes a bit too much afterwards? Should the focus, instead, remain on the road ahead?</strong></p>

<p>If we compare ourselves with China, we are still far behind in terms of the overall inclination we've for weightlifting. To date, parents are reluctant to invest their ward's career in other diverse fields. The government is doing its part and even the media isn't wrong here. The thought process of the common citizens have to change and not just think about the medal-winners for 2-4 months but emphasise for a longer period. Hence, a chain will be formed where we will get a lot more talent for every sport. There is no dearth of talent in India for any field. If sports culture widens nationwide, it will help our country to develop further as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Q) Paralympics athletes have crossed double figures in the medal tally as we speak. Do you think time is ripe for India to invest heavily on athletics and various other field events, and not remain a cricket-centric country?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Yes, last time also they'd (para-athletes) inspired us. They showed us the way after our Rio 2016 campaign too&nbsp;when we felt down. They&nbsp;always show us to never give up. They have their shortcomings but still don't know how to go down without giving a serious fight. Hence, what is stopping us? This time around too, they're winning hearts all over.&nbsp; Also, the government needs to be credited for their efforts and involvement. I've never seen such amount of help from any government. Once, we were sent to the USA in a day after all the arrangements were put in place.</p>

<p>Thus, hopefully in the next Olympics we will return back with 25 medals.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Honoured to meet and interact with our Honourable Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> sir. <a href="https://t.co/nUj1cnk33S">pic.twitter.com/nUj1cnk33S</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1427317915817156609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Q) Apart from Mira, whose performance has impressed you the most? You can even mention among the lot that won hearts but no medals.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Mira was impressive. We all believed she will return with a medal and she proved us right. She lived upto expectations. Among others in individual&nbsp;sports, Neeraj Chopra was superb. I didn't expect that from him but he left me completely stunned. On the other hand, the women's hockey -- infact the entire hockey contingent -- and their performance was praise worthy, to say the least.&nbsp;From moving to the fourth spot after ending last in Rio 2016, Rani Rampal &amp; Co. deserve all the applause and praise.</p>


Firsts are always special. Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won India its first-ever medal at the Tokyo 2020, by securing a silver in the 49kg category. It was the start of something special for Team India, who went on to end with as many as seven medals to return their best-ever showing at an Olympics.

Firsts are always special. Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won India its first-ever medal at the Tokyo 2020, by securing a silver in the 49kg category. It was the start of something special for Team India, who went on to end with as many as seven medals to return their best-ever showing at an Olympics. Thus, she fulfilled her family’s and her dreams. She also made her entire team, which was beside her at all times and had worked tirelessly to ensure her a podium-finish, extremely proud. Vijay Sharma, Mirabai's and India's national weightlifting coach, was also beaming with pride seeing his protégé stand on the podium as she also fulfilled his long-standing and unfulfilled desire. For the unversed, Vijay joined as the national coach in 2012. However, the first chapter of his journey as an athlete was penned down long back. The man from Modinagar, near Meerut, didn't have a glittering resume but won as many as seven medals -- including a gold -- at the national championship. However, an Olympic medal eluded his cabinet before Mirabai scripted history. Thus, while Vijay cannot brag of an Olympic medal as an athlete, he is now living his dream in through her success. WION News' Aditya Sahay got chance to interact with Vijay Sharma as the veteran coach shared his journey with Mirabai, the hardships and sacrifices seen together and future of weightlifting in India. Here are the excerpts: Q) Being a former athlete, how did you feel when Mirabai Chanu secured silver at Tokyo 2020? What was the initial feeling? Being an athlete and now a coach, it was such a moment that cannot be described. If you are not able to do something in life, you hope and expect that is achieved by your child. These athletes are my children only. So I cannot really put this in words as to what and how I actually felt. After Rio 2016 and the Tokyo Olympics being pushed by a year due to Covid-19, the wait was a long one but eventually turned out to be worthwhile. Q) Surely, the process must've been tough. Over the years, you're believed to have made sure the relationship between athletes-coach remained solid and the diet and overall fitness weren't compromised at any cost. What was your initial plans when you stepped up as the national weightlifting coach in 2012? During my stint as an athlete, staying in national camp from 1993-2000, I gave plenty of trails and failed many a times. Back then, I realised what all are essential for any player in his, or her, journey. That phase taught me many things. Thus, I started with a lot of changes as a state coach in 2001. I tried and tested a lot of things in my initial days. We won the state junior championship on three successive occasions, which propelled the federation to invite us and work with the national team. Since joining the national team, I realised the same issues are still existing in the federation in terms of training regime, diet plans, fitness etc. Slowly and steadily, I started seeing the changes and understood the progress is now happening. My personal experience taught me a lot. Earlier the culture and concept was that running fitness isn't that important in weightlifting. It took time but I tried to inculcate such changes and look after the overall fitness in every aspect. Back in action! #missionparis2024 pic.twitter.com/0D5ZVMMN0k — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) August 25, 2021 × I worked on athletes' diet plans, fitness and to build a trust and communication with the players. You need to sit and spend time with them, on and off the field. Only then will they respond and work with you in a desired manner. See, national champions won't listen to you at once. He, or she, will feel they are already very good so one needs to win their trust so that the communication and respect is intact. After all this was formed, we started marching ahead in big events and the confidence and momentum just kept on building continuously. Q) What were the hardships Mirabai-Vijay Sharma and team went through over the years, enroute Tokyo silver? I've worked a lot with these players. All of them, not only Mirabai, have sacrificed a lot. Mira was contemplating quitting the game, especially after what transpired in Rio 2016. The following 2-3 months was very tough to motivate and force her way back. After her record win in 2018 Commonwealth Games (CWG), her back injury forced us to stay in Mumbai for long for medical treatment so that was another big jolt coming our way. To top it all, Mira didn't even attend her own sister's wedding. From Rio 2016 onwards, she must've visited her hometown for only 12-14 days maximum. Even I haven't met my close friends for years. You don't get to visit families on occasions and festivities, which doesn't come out in the open but is tough for every athlete. Thank you my coach Vijay Sharma sir and team for all the hardwork. pic.twitter.com/CwBfqOJBws — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) July 24, 2021 × Q) Is it true that you missed out on several family gatherings and festivities over the years. How tough was it and how did your family support you? I continued to play at the national level even after marriage. So every new member of the family knew that my life isn't the same. However, my family has always supported me wholeheartedly. No one can move an inch ahead or succeed in their field sans family support. I've my home in Ghaziabad. It isn't very far from the camp (in Patiala). But I never travelled back home. I wasn't home even for Karwa Chauth or any other festival to follow the same rules which were applicable to the athletes. It didn't feel right to visit my family when my children (i.e. the athletes) remain in the camp. One needs to set the example and abide by it for others to follow suit. These are my children. Any birthday or festival, we get together and celebrate as much as we can....so that we can treat each other as a family away from home. Q) Is it easy when the coach has also won medals, like you have, and represented the nation? Does the method become slightly easier? Depends on the inner soul. There were many good or great players with me during my national camp days. I wasn't the best, but that doesn't mean a good athlete will be a good coach. It all depends on how your mind is reacting and how confident you are from within. Q) In India, we shower athletes with praises when they succeed and criticise them sharply when they're down. Do you feel the attention given, though much-deserved, becomes a bit too much afterwards? Should the focus, instead, remain on the road ahead? If we compare ourselves with China, we are still far behind in terms of the overall inclination we've for weightlifting. To date, parents are reluctant to invest their ward's career in other diverse fields. The government is doing its part and even the media isn't wrong here. The thought process of the common citizens have to change and not just think about the medal-winners for 2-4 months but emphasise for a longer period. Hence, a chain will be formed where we will get a lot more talent for every sport. There is no dearth of talent in India for any field. If sports culture widens nationwide, it will help our country to develop further as well. Q) Paralympics athletes have crossed double figures in the medal tally as we speak. Do you think time is ripe for India to invest heavily on athletics and various other field events, and not remain a cricket-centric country? Yes, last time also they'd (para-athletes) inspired us. They showed us the way after our Rio 2016 campaign too when we felt down. They always show us to never give up. They have their shortcomings but still don't know how to go down without giving a serious fight. Hence, what is stopping us? This time around too, they're winning hearts all over. Also, the government needs to be credited for their efforts and involvement. I've never seen such amount of help from any government. Once, we were sent to the USA in a day after all the arrangements were put in place. Thus, hopefully in the next Olympics we will return back with 25 medals. Honoured to meet and interact with our Honourable Prime Minister @narendramodi sir. pic.twitter.com/nUj1cnk33S — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) August 16, 2021 × Q) Apart from Mira, whose performance has impressed you the most? You can even mention among the lot that won hearts but no medals. Mira was impressive. We all believed she will return with a medal and she proved us right. She lived upto expectations. Among others in individual sports, Neeraj Chopra was superb. I didn't expect that from him but he left me completely stunned. On the other hand, the women's hockey -- infact the entire hockey contingent -- and their performance was praise worthy, to say the least. From moving to the fourth spot after ending last in Rio 2016, Rani Rampal & Co. deserve all the applause and praise.

EXCLUSIVE | Dark clouds of struggle have a 'silver' lining for Mirabai Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma

<p>Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Sunday felicitated the Tokyo Olympics medalists Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Ravi Dahiya, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia and the Indian men`s hockey team in Delhi.</p>

<p>The IOA chief Narinder Batra, Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, and MoS Sports Nisith Pramanik were present at the event.</p>

<p>"Let me first congratulate and thank all the medal winners who qualified, participated, and won the medals for India. A very big thank you to all of you. You have made India proud," Anurag Thakur said while addressing the athletes during the felicitation program.</p>

<p>Office of Anurag Thakur on Twitter wrote: "Union Minister @ianuragthakur felicitated Indian Olympic Medalists at a program organised by the Indian Olympic Association."</p>

<p>The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) awarded Olympic champion, Neeraj Chopra, with a cash award of Rs 75 lakh. Meanwhile, wrestler Ravi Dahiya and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu received Rs 50 lakh each for their silver in Tokyo.</p>

<p>The bronze medallists shuttler PV Sindhu, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, and wrestler Bajrang Punia received Rs 25 lakh. The bronze-medal winning men`s hockey team got Rs 10 lakh for each member. Earlier, the thirty-two Olympic winners, including javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, India`s first-ever Gold Medallist in track and field, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu along with two officials of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) attended the 75th Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Sunday felicitated the Tokyo Olympics medalists Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Ravi Dahiya, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia and the Indian men`s hockey team in Delhi.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Sunday felicitated the Tokyo Olympics medalists Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, Ravi Dahiya, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia and the Indian men`s hockey team in Delhi. The IOA chief Narinder Batra, Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, and MoS Sports Nisith Pramanik were present at the event. "Let me first congratulate and thank all the medal winners who qualified, participated, and won the medals for India. A very big thank you to all of you. You have made India proud," Anurag Thakur said while addressing the athletes during the felicitation program. Office of Anurag Thakur on Twitter wrote: "Union Minister @ianuragthakur felicitated Indian Olympic Medalists at a program organised by the Indian Olympic Association." The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) awarded Olympic champion, Neeraj Chopra, with a cash award of Rs 75 lakh. Meanwhile, wrestler Ravi Dahiya and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu received Rs 50 lakh each for their silver in Tokyo. The bronze medallists shuttler PV Sindhu, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, and wrestler Bajrang Punia received Rs 25 lakh. The bronze-medal winning men`s hockey team got Rs 10 lakh for each member. Earlier, the thirty-two Olympic winners, including javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, India`s first-ever Gold Medallist in track and field, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu along with two officials of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) attended the 75th Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort on Sunday.

IOA felicitates Tokyo Olympics medal winners

From Neeraj Chopra to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics

From Bhavani Devi's efforts to Neeraj Chopra's gold: Historic firsts and some shining moments of India at Tokyo Olympics

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<p>India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, turned 27 on August 8. She celebrated her special day with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh at his official residence. Silver medal at Tokyo Games was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women's 69kg weight category.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mirabai was spotted cutting cake and CM Biren Singh was there with some other officials. The Chief Minister posted the video on his official Twitter account, with a caption, "Wishing you a very happy birthday Mirabai. May you continue to bring laurels to the country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a></strong></p>

<p>The silver medalist re-tweeted the post and wrote, "Thank you Hon'ble CM @NBirenSingh sir for making my birthday so special." Former sports minister Kiren Rijiju also wished her. He wrote, "A warm birthday greetings to the first Olympic medalist for India at the #Tokyo2020@mirabai_chanu This Birthday is very special for all of us. Best wishes for future journey!"</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you Hon'ble CM <a href="https://twitter.com/NBirenSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBirenSingh</a> sir for making my birthday so special. <a href="https://t.co/VLCEZH7uBM">https://t.co/VLCEZH7uBM</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1424259158484783104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you so much <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a> sir for the birthday wishes. <a href="https://t.co/yCS3C3YJz9">https://t.co/yCS3C3YJz9</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1424314373867130883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Mirabai Chanu's 'extraordinary gestures'</strong></p>

<p>After winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, Indian weightlifter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-mirabai-chanus-exclusive-interview-right-after-silver-medal-win-watch-400412" target="_blank">Mirabai Chanu</a>&nbsp;had expressed her desire to meet the truck drivers who used to give her a lift during training days. Looks like, she got the opportunity to finally get in touch with them as she was recently spotted thanking and rewarding them for their help. The 26-year-old made the entire nation proud after she won a medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at Tokyo Games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It's been known that Chanu's home was more than 25kms away from the sports complex in Imphal where she used to train. There were limited means of transport. During those days, some truck drivers used to give a lift to the Manipuri weightlifter every day. Now, the Olympic medalist has rewarded those truck drivers.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/sonmonib5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sonmonib5</a> sir. I will continue to support our people who have contributed in my journey at any level. <a href="https://t.co/s3v2XmRdYI">https://t.co/s3v2XmRdYI</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1423922326261821442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, turned 27 on August 8. She celebrated her special day with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh at his official residence.

India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, turned 27 on August 8. She celebrated her special day with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh at his official residence. Silver medal at Tokyo Games was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women's 69kg weight category. Mirabai was spotted cutting cake and CM Biren Singh was there with some other officials. The Chief Minister posted the video on his official Twitter account, with a caption, "Wishing you a very happy birthday Mirabai. May you continue to bring laurels to the country." IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list The silver medalist re-tweeted the post and wrote, "Thank you Hon'ble CM @NBirenSingh sir for making my birthday so special." Former sports minister Kiren Rijiju also wished her. He wrote, "A warm birthday greetings to the first Olympic medalist for India at the #Tokyo2020@mirabai_chanu This Birthday is very special for all of us. Best wishes for future journey!" Watch the video here: Thank you Hon'ble CM @NBirenSingh sir for making my birthday so special. https://t.co/VLCEZH7uBM — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) August 8, 2021 × Thank you so much @KirenRijiju sir for the birthday wishes. https://t.co/yCS3C3YJz9 — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) August 8, 2021 × IN PICS | From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics Mirabai Chanu's 'extraordinary gestures' After winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu had expressed her desire to meet the truck drivers who used to give her a lift during training days. Looks like, she got the opportunity to finally get in touch with them as she was recently spotted thanking and rewarding them for their help. The 26-year-old made the entire nation proud after she won a medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at Tokyo Games. It's been known that Chanu's home was more than 25kms away from the sports complex in Imphal where she used to train. There were limited means of transport. During those days, some truck drivers used to give a lift to the Manipuri weightlifter every day. Now, the Olympic medalist has rewarded those truck drivers. Thank you @sonmonib5 sir. I will continue to support our people who have contributed in my journey at any level. https://t.co/s3v2XmRdYI — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) August 7, 2021 ×

Mirabai Chanu celebrates birthday with Manipur CM: 'May you continue to bring laurels to the country' - watch

<p>After winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, Indian weightlifter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-mirabai-chanus-exclusive-interview-right-after-silver-medal-win-watch-400412">Mirabai Chanu</a> had expressed her desire to meet the truck drivers who used to give her a lift during training days. Looks like, she got the opportunity to finally get in touch with them as she was recently spotted thanking and rewarding them for their help. The 26-year-old made the entire nation proud after she won a medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at Tokyo Games. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It's been known that Chanu's home was more than 25kms away from the sports complex in Imphal where she used to train. There were limited means of transport. During those days, some truck drivers used to give a lift to the Manipuri weightlifter every day. Now, the Olympic medalist has rewarded those truck drivers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a></strong></p>

<p>"Extraordinary gestures by @mirabai_chanu #MirabaiChanu as she conveys her gratitude to these wonderful #TruckDrivers! In her difficult days, these sand carrying truck drivers used to give free transportation to Mira so that she could have training at 25 km away #spirts facility," Sonmoni Borah IAS, tweeted with a couple of photos, where Mirabai can be seen.</p>

<p><strong>See viral pics here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/sonmonib5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sonmonib5</a> sir. I will continue to support our people who have contributed in my journey at any level. <a href="https://t.co/s3v2XmRdYI">https://t.co/s3v2XmRdYI</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1423922326261821442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While replying to the tweet, Mirabai wrote, "Thank you @sonmonib5 sir. I will continue to support our people who have contributed in my journey at any level."</p>

<p>Previously, Mirabai opened up on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped her to reach the Tokyo Games 2020 and in recovering from an injury. Chanu revealed that PM Modi "helped" with a ticket for the US flight in one day to train there and undergo rehabilitation.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p>"It's true that Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped me reach Tokyo 2020 Olympics after my injury. They booked the ticket for the flight in one day for the US to help me train there and undergo rehabilitation," Mirabai Chanu told ANI. "Sir has given me huge support for the training," added Chanu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch her&nbsp;Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview here:</strong></p>

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After winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu had expressed her desire to meet the truck drivers who used to give her a lift during training days.

After winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu had expressed her desire to meet the truck drivers who used to give her a lift during training days. Looks like, she got the opportunity to finally get in touch with them as she was recently spotted thanking and rewarding them for their help. The 26-year-old made the entire nation proud after she won a medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at Tokyo Games. It's been known that Chanu's home was more than 25kms away from the sports complex in Imphal where she used to train. There were limited means of transport. During those days, some truck drivers used to give a lift to the Manipuri weightlifter every day. Now, the Olympic medalist has rewarded those truck drivers. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list "Extraordinary gestures by @mirabai_chanu #MirabaiChanu as she conveys her gratitude to these wonderful #TruckDrivers! In her difficult days, these sand carrying truck drivers used to give free transportation to Mira so that she could have training at 25 km away #spirts facility," Sonmoni Borah IAS, tweeted with a couple of photos, where Mirabai can be seen. See viral pics here: Thank you @sonmonib5 sir. I will continue to support our people who have contributed in my journey at any level. https://t.co/s3v2XmRdYI — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) August 7, 2021 × While replying to the tweet, Mirabai wrote, "Thank you @sonmonib5 sir. I will continue to support our people who have contributed in my journey at any level." Previously, Mirabai opened up on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped her to reach the Tokyo Games 2020 and in recovering from an injury. Chanu revealed that PM Modi "helped" with a ticket for the US flight in one day to train there and undergo rehabilitation. IN PICS | From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics "It's true that Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped me reach Tokyo 2020 Olympics after my injury. They booked the ticket for the flight in one day for the US to help me train there and undergo rehabilitation," Mirabai Chanu told ANI. "Sir has given me huge support for the training," added Chanu. Watch her Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview here: ×

'Extraordinary gestures': Mirabai Chanu felicitates truck drivers who helped her during training days - see pics

<p>India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has opened up on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped her to reach the Tokyo Games 2020 and&nbsp;in recovering from an injury.</p>

<p>Chanu revealed that PM Modi "helped" with a ticket for the US flight in one day to train there and undergo rehabilitation. The 26-year-old won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at Tokyo Games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's true that Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped me reach Tokyo 2020 Olympics after my injury. They booked the ticket for the flight in one day for the US to help me train there and undergo rehabilitation," Mirabai Chanu told ANI. "Sir has given me huge support for the training," added Chanu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-womens-hockey-team-captures-nations-imagination-heres-a-look-at-their-fairytale-run-at-tokyo-2020-403368">Indian women's hockey team captures nation's imagination, here's a look at their fairytale run at Tokyo 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>After winning a medal in Tokyo, Mirabai became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh revealed that PM Modi had intervened to help two of the athletes to get better medical care and training in the US before the Tokyo Olympics.</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI, the Manipur CM said when he had met the Prime Minister this week, he thanked him for helping weightlifter Mirabai Chanu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-hockey-belgium-claim-first-gold-after-shootout-win-over-australia-403167">Tokyo Olympics hockey: Belgium claim first gold after shootout win over Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just after winning silver, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION, where she had mentioned a call from PM Modi, who tweeted moments after she had won the medal. He wrote, "Congratulations to her for winning the Silver medal in weightlifting. Her success motivates every Indian." He also added that he couldn't have asked for a happier start to the Olympics 2020 and mentioned that India is elated by Chanu's "stupendous performance".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the exclusive chat with WION, Chanu had also opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." <strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has opened up on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped her to reach the Tokyo Games 2020 and in recovering from an injury.

India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has opened up on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped her to reach the Tokyo Games 2020 and in recovering from an injury. Chanu revealed that PM Modi "helped" with a ticket for the US flight in one day to train there and undergo rehabilitation. The 26-year-old won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at Tokyo Games. "It's true that Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped me reach Tokyo 2020 Olympics after my injury. They booked the ticket for the flight in one day for the US to help me train there and undergo rehabilitation," Mirabai Chanu told ANI. "Sir has given me huge support for the training," added Chanu. IN PICS | Indian women's hockey team captures nation's imagination, here's a look at their fairytale run at Tokyo 2020 After winning a medal in Tokyo, Mirabai became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. Earlier on Friday, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh revealed that PM Modi had intervened to help two of the athletes to get better medical care and training in the US before the Tokyo Olympics. Speaking to ANI, the Manipur CM said when he had met the Prime Minister this week, he thanked him for helping weightlifter Mirabai Chanu. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics hockey: Belgium claim first gold after shootout win over Australia Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). Just after winning silver, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION, where she had mentioned a call from PM Modi, who tweeted moments after she had won the medal. He wrote, "Congratulations to her for winning the Silver medal in weightlifting. Her success motivates every Indian." He also added that he couldn't have asked for a happier start to the Olympics 2020 and mentioned that India is elated by Chanu's "stupendous performance". In the exclusive chat with WION, Chanu had also opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." Watch the video here: × (with inputs from agencies)

Tokyo Olympics: PM Modi gave me 'huge support' to train in the US, says Mirabai Chanu

<p>Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu posed with the elusive medal that she won in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category. She said that after working hard for four years, winning the medal was a "dream come true" and she is still letting the feeling sink in.</p>

<p>Mirabai became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category.</p>

<p>While taking to Twitter, Charu wrote, "Finally my toil of 4 years came true. The feeling of being able to kiss this medal is inexplicable. Winning this medal is a dream come true for me and I'm still letting this feeling to sink in."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Finally my toil of 4 years came true. The feeling of being able to kiss this medal is inexplicable. Winning this medal is a dream come true for me and I'm still letting this feeling to sink in. <a href="https://t.co/BdSpjt9La7">pic.twitter.com/BdSpjt9La7</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1421116944892137474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Chanu has shared several heart-warming moments that she spend with family members since she returned home from Tokyo. She also expressed the feeling of meeting family after two years. She wrote, "This feeling of meeting my family after a long span of 2 years is beyond words. I'm grateful to each one of you for showing faith in me and supporting me. Thank you Ema and baba for all the sacrifices you made for me to reach at this level."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This feeling of meeting my family after a long span of 2 years is beyond words. I'm grateful to each one of you for showing faith in me and supporting me. Thank you Ema and baba for all the sacrifices you made for me to reach at this level. <a href="https://t.co/RlXby6QoOv">pic.twitter.com/RlXby6QoOv</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1420410894769561603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 26-year-old managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the medal, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION and&nbsp;opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch her exclusive interview here:</strong></p>

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<p>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">here</a>&nbsp;for all Tokyo Olympics updates!</p>


Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu posed with the elusive medal that she won in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category. She said that after working hard for four years, winning the medal was a "dream come true" and she is still letting the feeling sink in.

Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu posed with the elusive medal that she won in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category. She said that after working hard for four years, winning the medal was a "dream come true" and she is still letting the feeling sink in. Mirabai became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. While taking to Twitter, Charu wrote, "Finally my toil of 4 years came true. The feeling of being able to kiss this medal is inexplicable. Winning this medal is a dream come true for me and I'm still letting this feeling to sink in." Finally my toil of 4 years came true. The feeling of being able to kiss this medal is inexplicable. Winning this medal is a dream come true for me and I'm still letting this feeling to sink in. pic.twitter.com/BdSpjt9La7 — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) July 30, 2021 × Chanu has shared several heart-warming moments that she spend with family members since she returned home from Tokyo. She also expressed the feeling of meeting family after two years. She wrote, "This feeling of meeting my family after a long span of 2 years is beyond words. I'm grateful to each one of you for showing faith in me and supporting me. Thank you Ema and baba for all the sacrifices you made for me to reach at this level." This feeling of meeting my family after a long span of 2 years is beyond words. I'm grateful to each one of you for showing faith in me and supporting me. Thank you Ema and baba for all the sacrifices you made for me to reach at this level. pic.twitter.com/RlXby6QoOv — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) July 28, 2021 × The 26-year-old managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). After winning the medal, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION and opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." Watch her exclusive interview here: × Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

Tokyo Olympics: Mirabai Chanu poses with silver medal, says 'letting this feeling sink in' - see pics

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<p>Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has emerged as an inspiration for youngsters after winning a silver medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Bollywood celebrities and sports stars, entire nation sent congratulatory messages to her. However, it looks like a cute little girl, who tried to mimic her silver-winning moment, has managed to impress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weightlifter Satish Sivalingam tweeted a video of his young daughter mimicking Mirabai, with a caption, "Junior @mirabai_chanu this s called the inspiration." Chanu re-tweeted the post and wrote, "So cute. Just love this."</p>

<p>In the video, the small girl was trying to copy Mirabai's silver-winning lift as the TV was playing footage of the weightlifter in the background. The girl also celebrated just like Chanu by waving her hands and imitated the monumental medal moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-rupinder-pal-singh-strikes-twice-as-india-defeat-spain-3-0-in-pool-a-clash-400867">Tokyo Olympics: Rupinder Pal Singh strikes twice as India defeat Spain 3-0 in Pool A clash</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So cute. Just love this. <a href="https://t.co/IGBHIfDrEk">https://t.co/IGBHIfDrEk</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1419737251450261504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>As she returned back home, Mirabai Chanu got a warm greeting as the staff at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport congratulated her with garlands and rooted for her upon her appearance from Tokyo. The 26-year-old was welcomed with serenades of '<em>Bharat Mata ki Jai</em>' (Victory for Mother India). <strong>Watch:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu receives a warm welcome as the staff at the Delhi airport cheered for her upon her arrival from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympics</a> <a href="https://t.co/VonxVMHmeo">pic.twitter.com/VonxVMHmeo</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1419616592552370178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mirabai became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-manu-bhaker-saurabh-chaudhary-fail-to-qualify-for-mixed-team-10m-air-pistol-qualification-medal-rounds-400852">Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary fail to qualify for mixed-team 10m air pistol Qualification medal rounds</a></strong></p>

<p>After winning the medal, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION and&nbsp;opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch her exclusive interview here:</strong></p>

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Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has emerged as an inspiration for youngsters after winning a silver medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category.

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has emerged as an inspiration for youngsters after winning a silver medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Bollywood celebrities and sports stars, entire nation sent congratulatory messages to her. However, it looks like a cute little girl, who tried to mimic her silver-winning moment, has managed to impress. Weightlifter Satish Sivalingam tweeted a video of his young daughter mimicking Mirabai, with a caption, "Junior @mirabai_chanu this s called the inspiration." Chanu re-tweeted the post and wrote, "So cute. Just love this." In the video, the small girl was trying to copy Mirabai's silver-winning lift as the TV was playing footage of the weightlifter in the background. The girl also celebrated just like Chanu by waving her hands and imitated the monumental medal moment. Also Read: Tokyo Olympics: Rupinder Pal Singh strikes twice as India defeat Spain 3-0 in Pool A clash Watch the video here: So cute. Just love this. https://t.co/IGBHIfDrEk — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) July 26, 2021 × As she returned back home, Mirabai Chanu got a warm greeting as the staff at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport congratulated her with garlands and rooted for her upon her appearance from Tokyo. The 26-year-old was welcomed with serenades of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' (Victory for Mother India). Watch: #WATCH | Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu receives a warm welcome as the staff at the Delhi airport cheered for her upon her arrival from #TokyoOlympics pic.twitter.com/VonxVMHmeo — ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2021 × The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). Mirabai became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary fail to qualify for mixed-team 10m air pistol Qualification medal rounds After winning the medal, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION and opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." Watch her exclusive interview here: × Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

Tokyo Olympics: Mirabai Chanu reacts to video of small girl mimicking her silver-winning moment - Watch

<p>Indian Olympic silver medalist Mirabai Chanu on Monday said she was somewhat apprehensive and under pressure as the whole nation had placed trust in her for a medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mirabai Chanu, India's only competitor in weightlifting, turned out to be just the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympics medal as she lifted a total of 202 kg. 87kg in snatch and 115kg in jerk lift during her endeavors across the competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China's Zhihui Hou stowed gold with a total of 210kg and made another Olympic record while Indonesia's 19-year-old Windy Cantika Aisah snatched bronze with a sum of 194kg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As she returned back home, Mirabai Chanu got a warm greeting as the staff at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport congratulated her with garlands and rooted for her upon her appearance from Tokyo. The 26-year-old was welcomed with serenades of '<em>Bharat Mata ki Jai</em>' (Victory for Mother India).&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu receives a warm welcome as the staff at the Delhi airport cheered for her upon her arrival from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympics</a> <a href="https://t.co/VonxVMHmeo">pic.twitter.com/VonxVMHmeo</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1419616592552370178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Manipur Government, the home state has chosen to designate her as the Additional Superintendent of Police Sports in the police office to acknowledge her victory, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Happy to be back here in amidst so much love and support. Thank You so much,” she tweeted after landing.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy to be back here in amidst so much love and support. Thank You so much 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/ttjGkkxlDu">pic.twitter.com/ttjGkkxlDu</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1419618724047310848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian Olympic silver medalist Mirabai Chanu on Monday said she was somewhat apprehensive and under pressure as the whole nation had placed trust in her for a medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.

Indian Olympic silver medalist Mirabai Chanu on Monday said she was somewhat apprehensive and under pressure as the whole nation had placed trust in her for a medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Mirabai Chanu, India's only competitor in weightlifting, turned out to be just the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympics medal as she lifted a total of 202 kg. 87kg in snatch and 115kg in jerk lift during her endeavors across the competition. China's Zhihui Hou stowed gold with a total of 210kg and made another Olympic record while Indonesia's 19-year-old Windy Cantika Aisah snatched bronze with a sum of 194kg. As she returned back home, Mirabai Chanu got a warm greeting as the staff at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport congratulated her with garlands and rooted for her upon her appearance from Tokyo. The 26-year-old was welcomed with serenades of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' (Victory for Mother India). #WATCH | Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu receives a warm welcome as the staff at the Delhi airport cheered for her upon her arrival from #TokyoOlympics pic.twitter.com/VonxVMHmeo — ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2021 × Manipur Government, the home state has chosen to designate her as the Additional Superintendent of Police Sports in the police office to acknowledge her victory, as per reports. “Happy to be back here in amidst so much love and support. Thank You so much,” she tweeted after landing. Happy to be back here in amidst so much love and support. Thank You so much 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/ttjGkkxlDu — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) July 26, 2021 ×

Tokyo Olympics: Silver medalist Mirabai Chanu gets a grand reception on arrival in India

<p>Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu headed back to India on Monday after winning a silver medal for her country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400707" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a></p>

<p>Chanu took to Twitter to share this news. "Heading back to home, Thank you #Tokyo2020 for memorable moments of my life," tweeted Chanu.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heading back to home 🇮🇳, Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> for memorable moments of my life. <a href="https://t.co/6H2VpAxU1x">pic.twitter.com/6H2VpAxU1x</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1419471081740529666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won the first medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24). China's HOU Zhihu, who lifted a total of 210kg, clinched the gold medal, on the other hand, Aisah Windy Cantika of Indonesia won the bronze medal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Indian trailblazer Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the medal, she said, "Was determined to give my best, 2016 Olympics proved to be a learning curve: Mirabai Chanu. I tried my best to win gold medal, I wasn't able to win gold, but I really tried. When I did 2nd lift, I understood I'll bring a medal along with me. I'm very happy that I've won the medal. The entire country was watching me &amp; they had their expectations, I was a little nervous but I was determined to give my best...I worked really hard for this."</p>

<p>India's President Ram Nath Kovind wished Chanu on her outstanding win. Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Heartiest congratulations to Mirabai Chanu for starting the medal tally for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 by winning silver medal in weightlifting."</p>


Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu headed back to India on Monday after winning a silver medal for her country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. ALSO READ: Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Chanu took to Twitter to share this news.

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu headed back to India on Monday after winning a silver medal for her country in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. ALSO READ: Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Chanu took to Twitter to share this news. "Heading back to home, Thank you #Tokyo2020 for memorable moments of my life," tweeted Chanu. Heading back to home 🇮🇳, Thank you #Tokyo2020 for memorable moments of my life. pic.twitter.com/6H2VpAxU1x — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) July 26, 2021 × Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won the first medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24). China's HOU Zhihu, who lifted a total of 210kg, clinched the gold medal, on the other hand, Aisah Windy Cantika of Indonesia won the bronze medal. It was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Indian trailblazer Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. After winning the medal, she said, "Was determined to give my best, 2016 Olympics proved to be a learning curve: Mirabai Chanu. I tried my best to win gold medal, I wasn't able to win gold, but I really tried. When I did 2nd lift, I understood I'll bring a medal along with me. I'm very happy that I've won the medal. The entire country was watching me & they had their expectations, I was a little nervous but I was determined to give my best...I worked really hard for this." India's President Ram Nath Kovind wished Chanu on her outstanding win. Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Heartiest congratulations to Mirabai Chanu for starting the medal tally for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 by winning silver medal in weightlifting."

Tokyo 2020- 'Heading back': Mirabai Chanu set to return to India after a memorable Olympics

<p>Athletes follow a disciplined training and fitness regime to maintain their physique and athleticism; they sacrifice their favourite food items to maintain their diet habits and compete at international levels. However, some of the prominent sportspersons in India sometimes share their 'cheat meals', for instance, remember when cricketer Virat Kohli talked about his love for 'Chole Bhature'. Interestingly, the latest star to join the list is none other than Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's star weightlifter was heard in one of the media interviews that she wishes to eat pizza and that too 'a lot of it'. Now, Domino's India has offered her "PizzasForLife". In a tweet, the food outlet wrote, "She said it, we heard it We never want @mirabai_chanu to wait to eat again so we’re treating her to FREE Domino’s pizza for life!"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%20Olympics:%20Silver%20medallist%20Mirabai%20Chanu's%20special%20Olympic%20earrings%20stole%20the%20show">Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show</a></p>

<p>The American food outlet had also congratulated the weightlifter moments after she won the medal and opened India's tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, it wrote, "Congratulations on bringing the medal home! You brought the dreams of a billion+ Indians to life and we couldn’t be happier to treat you to FREE pizza for life &nbsp;Congratulations again!!"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympics-athletes-must-wear-masks-at-games-apart-from-podium-moment-400491" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment</a></p>

<p>From a heartbreak at Rio Olympics to winning glory at Tokyo, Mirabai Chanu talked about her journey while speaking exclusively to WION. The silver medalist and her coach Vijay Sharma opened up on a length of topics. She also said that now, she wants to go home as she has not been able to due to the preparation for the Olympics but firmly mentioned that she will continue to train as there is a lot yet to achieve.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the interview here:</strong></p>

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<p>The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chanu has given a reason to smile to all the Indians amid the Coronavirus (COID-19) crisis. From India Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, the entire nation wished Chanu for bringing home the glory. The celebrations in her home town were rather special. Family and neighbours of Mirabai Chanu reacted while watching her win the Silver medal for India. "We are very happy today. This is a result of her hard work. India and Manipur are proud of her," her relative in Imphal told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch how her family celebrated:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Manipur: Family and neighbours of weightlifter Mirabai Chanu burst into celebrations as they watch her win the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Silver?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Silver</a> medal for India in Women's 49kg category. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OlympicGames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OlympicGames</a> <a href="https://t.co/F2CjdwpPDc">pic.twitter.com/F2CjdwpPDc</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1418833399301672963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">here</a>&nbsp;for all Tokyo Olympics updates!</p>


Athletes follow a disciplined training and fitness regime to maintain their physique and athleticism; they sacrifice their favourite food items to maintain their diet habits and compete at international levels.

Athletes follow a disciplined training and fitness regime to maintain their physique and athleticism; they sacrifice their favourite food items to maintain their diet habits and compete at international levels. However, some of the prominent sportspersons in India sometimes share their 'cheat meals', for instance, remember when cricketer Virat Kohli talked about his love for 'Chole Bhature'. Interestingly, the latest star to join the list is none other than Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at Tokyo Olympics 2020. IN PICS: Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! India's star weightlifter was heard in one of the media interviews that she wishes to eat pizza and that too 'a lot of it'. Now, Domino's India has offered her "PizzasForLife". In a tweet, the food outlet wrote, "She said it, we heard it We never want @mirabai_chanu to wait to eat again so we’re treating her to FREE Domino’s pizza for life!" ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show The American food outlet had also congratulated the weightlifter moments after she won the medal and opened India's tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, it wrote, "Congratulations on bringing the medal home! You brought the dreams of a billion+ Indians to life and we couldn’t be happier to treat you to FREE pizza for life Congratulations again!!" ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment From a heartbreak at Rio Olympics to winning glory at Tokyo, Mirabai Chanu talked about her journey while speaking exclusively to WION. The silver medalist and her coach Vijay Sharma opened up on a length of topics. She also said that now, she wants to go home as she has not been able to due to the preparation for the Olympics but firmly mentioned that she will continue to train as there is a lot yet to achieve. Watch the interview here: × The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). Chanu has given a reason to smile to all the Indians amid the Coronavirus (COID-19) crisis. From India Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, the entire nation wished Chanu for bringing home the glory. The celebrations in her home town were rather special. Family and neighbours of Mirabai Chanu reacted while watching her win the Silver medal for India. "We are very happy today. This is a result of her hard work. India and Manipur are proud of her," her relative in Imphal told ANI. Watch how her family celebrated: #WATCH | Manipur: Family and neighbours of weightlifter Mirabai Chanu burst into celebrations as they watch her win the #Silver medal for India in Women's 49kg category. #OlympicGames pic.twitter.com/F2CjdwpPDc — ANI (@ANI) July 24, 2021 × Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

'Free pizza for life': Mirabai Chanu gets delicious offer after winning silver medal at Tokyo Olympics

<p>Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category and opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. As the entire nation is in celebration mode, Chanu opened up about her&nbsp;journey while speaking exclusively to WION's&nbsp;Digvijay Singh Deo.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." Chanu finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the interview here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview with WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a>: "Happy &amp; proud to have won the medal at Olympics"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MirabaiChanu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MirabaiChanu</a> <a href="https://t.co/yhG6k7nGlM">pic.twitter.com/yhG6k7nGlM</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1418932613084028930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian Olympics silver medalist Mirabai Chanu to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a>: "I only focused on giving my best performance"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MirabaiChanu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MirabaiChanu</a> <a href="https://t.co/IYcRnMjjtF">pic.twitter.com/IYcRnMjjtF</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1418933706325217280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Chanu lifted 84kg and 87kg successfully. She began with a 84kg lift in her first attempt in the snatch segment and went on to improve with an 87kg lift. However, she failed to lift 89kg as she was placed in the second spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Indian trailblazer Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. On being asked about her performance, Chanu said, "When I go for the lift, I think about focussing on giving my best performance and if everything goes as planned, the medal will automatically come."</p>

<p>The Manipur-born weightlifter spoke about the setback she had received in the Rio Olympics and said she was "very sad" but her coach and federation guided her. In 2016, Chanu suffered heartbreak at the Rio Games as she failed to get an overall total in the women's 48kg category after being unable to register a successful lift in any of her three attempts in clean and jerk. She said family and friends consoled her and also tried to convince her to look forward and plan for future tournaments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mirabai has won multiple accolades as she has been conferred the Arjuna Award, honoured with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2018, and the Padma Shri. Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma said that the honour was a "boost-up". He also mentioned the discipline that's needed to win medals at such events. He said, "just raw talent is not enough. Alongside the talent, the athletes always need the discipline and a hunger to reach the Olympics podium otherwise, it becomes really difficult."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tokyo-olympics-2020-top-7-teenagers-from-india-set-to-shine-in-the-greatest-extravaganza-400295" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Top 7 teenagers from India set to shine in the greatest extravaganza</a></p>

<p>Mirabai Chanu also said that she was extremely happy to receive a call from India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi had also tweeted moments after she had won the medal. He wrote, "Congratulations to her for winning the Silver medal in weightlifting. Her success motivates every Indian." He also added that he couldn't have asked for a happier start to the Olympics 2020 and mentioned that India is elated by Chanu's "stupendous performance".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chanu also said that now, she wants to go home as she has not been able to due to the preparation for the Olympics but firmly mentioned that she will continue to train as there is a lot yet to achieve.&nbsp;</p>


Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category and opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. As the entire nation is in celebration mode, Chanu opened up about her journey while speaking exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo.

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category and opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. As the entire nation is in celebration mode, Chanu opened up about her journey while speaking exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. IN PICS| Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! The 26-year-old Mirabai Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." Chanu finished behind the Olympic champion Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). Watch the interview here: Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview with WION's @DiggySinghDeo: "Happy & proud to have won the medal at Olympics"#Olympics #TokyoOlympics #Olympics2020 #MirabaiChanu pic.twitter.com/yhG6k7nGlM — WION (@WIONews) July 24, 2021 × Indian Olympics silver medalist Mirabai Chanu to WION's @DiggySinghDeo: "I only focused on giving my best performance"#Olympics #TokyoOlympics #Olympics2020 #MirabaiChanu pic.twitter.com/IYcRnMjjtF — WION (@WIONews) July 24, 2021 × Chanu lifted 84kg and 87kg successfully. She began with a 84kg lift in her first attempt in the snatch segment and went on to improve with an 87kg lift. However, she failed to lift 89kg as she was placed in the second spot. It was a historic feat for Chanu as her win came two decades after Indian trailblazer Karnam Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. On being asked about her performance, Chanu said, "When I go for the lift, I think about focussing on giving my best performance and if everything goes as planned, the medal will automatically come." The Manipur-born weightlifter spoke about the setback she had received in the Rio Olympics and said she was "very sad" but her coach and federation guided her. In 2016, Chanu suffered heartbreak at the Rio Games as she failed to get an overall total in the women's 48kg category after being unable to register a successful lift in any of her three attempts in clean and jerk. She said family and friends consoled her and also tried to convince her to look forward and plan for future tournaments. Mirabai has won multiple accolades as she has been conferred the Arjuna Award, honoured with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2018, and the Padma Shri. Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma said that the honour was a "boost-up". He also mentioned the discipline that's needed to win medals at such events. He said, "just raw talent is not enough. Alongside the talent, the athletes always need the discipline and a hunger to reach the Olympics podium otherwise, it becomes really difficult." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Top 7 teenagers from India set to shine in the greatest extravaganza Mirabai Chanu also said that she was extremely happy to receive a call from India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi had also tweeted moments after she had won the medal. He wrote, "Congratulations to her for winning the Silver medal in weightlifting. Her success motivates every Indian." He also added that he couldn't have asked for a happier start to the Olympics 2020 and mentioned that India is elated by Chanu's "stupendous performance". Chanu also said that now, she wants to go home as she has not been able to due to the preparation for the Olympics but firmly mentioned that she will continue to train as there is a lot yet to achieve.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Mirabai Chanu's exclusive interview right after silver medal win | Watch

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu wins India's first medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she bags silver after lifting 202kg in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category. In this report, watch Indian medal-winner Mirabai Chanu speaking with WION.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Indian medal-winner Mirabai Chanu speaks with WION

<p>Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu has won the first medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24).&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
Right from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-pm-modi-wishes-mirabai-chanu-for-winning-silver-medal-says-india-is-elated-400307">Indian PM Narendra Modi to President Ram Nath Kovind</a>, many dignitaries have congratulated the athelete on her win and expressed their elation over the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
And joining the long list of prominent personalities to wish Chanu was Bollywood actor and Indian theatre personality Tisca Chopra. She wrote, “You make us proud girl! @mirabai_chanu (heart emoji) #Tokyo2021 #Olympics2021 #indiaattheolympics.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Indian actor Tisca Chopra's now deleted tweet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cfb4b590-f9b7-43bc-9dbf-a63faaff5e1f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20%2888%29.jpg" /></p>

<p><br />
But she attached the photograph of Indonesian weight lifter Aisah Windy Cantika instead of Mirabai Chanu’s. And in no time, people started to troll her for this glaring oversight.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
The tweet, now deleted by Chopra after facing backlash from fellow Twitter users, was live for over three hours before she took it down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the medal, this is what Chanu had to say:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am really happy on winning silver medal in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> for my country 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/gPtdhpA28z">pic.twitter.com/gPtdhpA28z</a></p>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1418856186980470794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu has won the first medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24).

Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu has won the first medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24). Right from Indian PM Narendra Modi to President Ram Nath Kovind, many dignitaries have congratulated the athelete on her win and expressed their elation over the same. And joining the long list of prominent personalities to wish Chanu was Bollywood actor and Indian theatre personality Tisca Chopra. She wrote, “You make us proud girl! @mirabai_chanu (heart emoji) #Tokyo2021 #Olympics2021 #indiaattheolympics.” But she attached the photograph of Indonesian weight lifter Aisah Windy Cantika instead of Mirabai Chanu’s. And in no time, people started to troll her for this glaring oversight. The tweet, now deleted by Chopra after facing backlash from fellow Twitter users, was live for over three hours before she took it down. After winning the medal, this is what Chanu had to say: I am really happy on winning silver medal in #Tokyo2020 for my country 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/gPtdhpA28z — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) July 24, 2021 ×

Tokyo Olympics: Tisca Chopra trolled for mistaking silver medalist Mirabai Chanu for an Indonesian wrestler

<p>Weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu made India proud after winning a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at the Tokyo Olympics on Saturday. The 26-year-old bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24).</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a></p>

<p>She was delighted to win her first medal for the country and expressed her happiness after the win. “I am very happy to win the first medal for India at these Games. I don't just belong to Manipur, I belong to the whole country,” she added in response to a query on what it meant for her as a Manipuri.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tokyo-olympics-2020-top-7-teenagers-from-india-set-to-shine-in-the-greatest-extravaganza-400295" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Top 7 teenagers from India set to shine in the greatest extravaganza</a></p>

<p>After winning the medal, she said, "Was determined to give my best, 2016 Olympics proved to be a learning curve: Mirabai Chanu. I tried my best to win gold medal, I wasn't able to win gold, but I really tried. When I did 2nd lift, I understood I'll bring a medal along with me. I'm very happy that I've won the medal. The entire country was watching me &amp; they had their expectations, I was a little nervous but I was determined to give my best...I worked really hard for this."</p>

<p>Several sporting icons and politicians congratulated Mirabai Chanu for the win. India's President Ram Nath Kovind wished Chanu on her outstanding win. Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Heartiest congratulations to Mirabai Chanu for starting the medal tally for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 by winning silver medal in weightlifting."</p>


Weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu made India proud after winning a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at the Tokyo Olympics on Saturday. The 26-year-old bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24).

Weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu made India proud after winning a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at the Tokyo Olympics on Saturday. The 26-year-old bagged silver after lifting 202kg (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category on Saturday (July 24). IN PICS| Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! She was delighted to win her first medal for the country and expressed her happiness after the win. “I am very happy to win the first medal for India at these Games. I don't just belong to Manipur, I belong to the whole country,” she added in response to a query on what it meant for her as a Manipuri. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Top 7 teenagers from India set to shine in the greatest extravaganza After winning the medal, she said, "Was determined to give my best, 2016 Olympics proved to be a learning curve: Mirabai Chanu. I tried my best to win gold medal, I wasn't able to win gold, but I really tried. When I did 2nd lift, I understood I'll bring a medal along with me. I'm very happy that I've won the medal. The entire country was watching me & they had their expectations, I was a little nervous but I was determined to give my best...I worked really hard for this." Several sporting icons and politicians congratulated Mirabai Chanu for the win. India's President Ram Nath Kovind wished Chanu on her outstanding win. Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Heartiest congratulations to Mirabai Chanu for starting the medal tally for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 by winning silver medal in weightlifting."

Tokyo Olympics: 'I belong to the whole country', says silver-medalist Mirabai Chanu

<p>Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who won an elusive silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category, said that she is 'very happy' after winning the medal. "The entire country was watching me and they had their expectations, I was a little nervous but I was determined to give my best...I worked really hard for this," she told the reporters. China's HOU Zhihu, who lifted a total of 210kg (94+116), clinched the gold medal and created an Olympic record. Aisah Windy Cantika of Indonesia won the bronze medal with 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics: From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari - Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a></strong></p>

<p>From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Ram Nath Kovind, the entire nation congratulated the Manipur-born weightlifter on her stunning win. However, the celebrations in her home town were rather special. Family and neighbours of Mirabai Chanu reacted while watching her win the Silver medal for India. "We are very happy today. This is a result of her hard work. India and Manipur are proud of her," her relative in Imphal told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Manipur: Family and neighbours of weightlifter Mirabai Chanu burst into celebrations as they watch her win the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Silver?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Silver</a> medal for India in Women's 49kg category. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OlympicGames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OlympicGames</a> <a href="https://t.co/F2CjdwpPDc">pic.twitter.com/F2CjdwpPDc</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1418833399301672963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-pm-modi-wishes-mirabai-chanu-for-winning-silver-medal-says-india-is-elated-400307">PM Modi wishes Mirabai Chanu for winning silver medal, says 'India is elated'</a></strong></p>

<p>On being asked whether she thought she could go for gold, Chanu said, "I tried my best to win gold medal, I wasn't able to win gold, but I really tried. when I did 2nd lift, I understood I'll bring a medal along with me."</p>

<p>Chanu lifted 84kg and 87kg successfully. She began with an 84kg lift in her first attempt in the snatch segment and went on to improve with an 87kg lift. However, she failed to lift 89kg as she was placed in the second spot and became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">here</a>&nbsp;for all Tokyo Olympics updates!</p>


Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who won an elusive silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category, said that she is 'very happy' after winning the medal.

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who won an elusive silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category, said that she is 'very happy' after winning the medal. "The entire country was watching me and they had their expectations, I was a little nervous but I was determined to give my best...I worked really hard for this," she told the reporters. China's HOU Zhihu, who lifted a total of 210kg (94+116), clinched the gold medal and created an Olympic record. Aisah Windy Cantika of Indonesia won the bronze medal with 194kg (84+110). IN PICS | Tokyo Olympics: From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari - Top Indian athletes to look out for! From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Ram Nath Kovind, the entire nation congratulated the Manipur-born weightlifter on her stunning win. However, the celebrations in her home town were rather special. Family and neighbours of Mirabai Chanu reacted while watching her win the Silver medal for India. "We are very happy today. This is a result of her hard work. India and Manipur are proud of her," her relative in Imphal told ANI. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Manipur: Family and neighbours of weightlifter Mirabai Chanu burst into celebrations as they watch her win the #Silver medal for India in Women's 49kg category. #OlympicGames pic.twitter.com/F2CjdwpPDc — ANI (@ANI) July 24, 2021 × Also Read: PM Modi wishes Mirabai Chanu for winning silver medal, says 'India is elated' On being asked whether she thought she could go for gold, Chanu said, "I tried my best to win gold medal, I wasn't able to win gold, but I really tried. when I did 2nd lift, I understood I'll bring a medal along with me." Chanu lifted 84kg and 87kg successfully. She began with an 84kg lift in her first attempt in the snatch segment and went on to improve with an 87kg lift. However, she failed to lift 89kg as she was placed in the second spot and became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

Tokyo Olympics: Here's how Mirabai Chanu's family, friends reacted as they watch her win silver medal

<p>Indian Olympic Association (IOC) on Saturday has announced cash prizes for coaches of Olympic medal winners. They added at Mirabai Chanu’s coach Vijay Sharma will get Rs 10 lakh after the 26-year-old weightlifter won a silver medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>IN PICS|&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a></p>

<p>“We have to reward the coaches also for producing Olympic medal winners. They are the ones who are guiding the athletes day in and day out. They are also working hard and making sacrifices, just like the athletes,” IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the association announced that they would give the Tokyo Olympics gold medal winners a cash award of Rs 75 lakh apart from giving each of the participating National Sports Federations (NSFs) a bonus amount of Rs 25 lakh. The silver medal winners will be presented Rs 40 lakh, while the bronze winners will get richer by Rs 25 lakhs.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/when-indias-top-guns-roared-at-the-olympics-400220" hreflang="en">When India's Top Guns roared at the Olympics</a></p>

<p>Mirabai Chanu is currently India's only medal-winning athlete. India are currently 10th on the points table and are tied with Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, and Chinese Taipei.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China are currently on top of the medal tally with three gold medals and one bronze medal. Hosts Japan have one gold and one silver in the pocket.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Olympic Association (IOC) on Saturday has announced cash prizes for coaches of Olympic medal winners. They added at Mirabai Chanu’s coach Vijay Sharma will get Rs 10 lakh after the 26-year-old weightlifter won a silver medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020.

Indian Olympic Association (IOC) on Saturday has announced cash prizes for coaches of Olympic medal winners. They added at Mirabai Chanu’s coach Vijay Sharma will get Rs 10 lakh after the 26-year-old weightlifter won a silver medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020. IN PICS| Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! “We have to reward the coaches also for producing Olympic medal winners. They are the ones who are guiding the athletes day in and day out. They are also working hard and making sacrifices, just like the athletes,” IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said. Earlier, the association announced that they would give the Tokyo Olympics gold medal winners a cash award of Rs 75 lakh apart from giving each of the participating National Sports Federations (NSFs) a bonus amount of Rs 25 lakh. The silver medal winners will be presented Rs 40 lakh, while the bronze winners will get richer by Rs 25 lakhs. IN PICS| When India's Top Guns roared at the Olympics Mirabai Chanu is currently India's only medal-winning athlete. India are currently 10th on the points table and are tied with Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, and Chinese Taipei. China are currently on top of the medal tally with three gold medals and one bronze medal. Hosts Japan have one gold and one silver in the pocket.

Tokyo Olympics: Indian Olympic Association announces cash rewards for coaches of medal-winners

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